Lille

Absolutely, Marjorie! Lille is such a charming city with a delightful mix of history, culture, and gastronomy. Let’s make the most of your two days there!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Lille

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try a croissant or pain au chocolat with a café au lait. Café de la Paix is a lovely spot to soak in the morning atmosphere.
• Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts: After breakfast, head to the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest fine arts museums in France. You’ll find an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Don’t miss the works by Rubens and Van Dyck!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at La Chicorée: For lunch, pop over to La Chicorée, a popular brasserie where you can try local specialties like carbonnade flamande (beef stew) or a hearty tartiflette.
• Stroll through Vieux Lille: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of Vieux Lille. Admire the beautiful Flemish architecture, and don’t forget to stop by the Place du Général de Gaulle to see the iconic Vieille Bourse.

Evening:

• Dinner at Le Puythouck: Treat yourself to dinner at Le Puythouck, where you can enjoy traditional northern French cuisine. The ambiance is cozy, and the food is delightful!
• Evening Walk: After dinner, take a stroll along the Deûle River. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere. If you’re up for it, grab a drink at one of the bars in the area.

Day 2: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at Maison Méert: Start your day with a sweet treat at Maison Méert, famous for its waffles. Pair it with a hot chocolate for a perfect start!
• Visit the Citadel of Lille: After breakfast, head to the Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can walk around the park surrounding it and enjoy the beautiful green spaces.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Le Pain de la Bouche: For lunch, try Le Pain de la Bouche, a cozy spot known for its fresh sandwiches and salads. Perfect for a light meal!
• Explore the La Piscine Museum: After lunch, make your way to La Piscine, a unique museum housed in a former swimming pool. The combination of art and architecture is stunning, and it’s a great place to spend a couple of hours.

Evening:

• Dinner at L’Assiette du Marché: For your final dinner in Lille, head to L’Assiette du Marché. The menu features seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
• Catch a Show or Concert: If you’re in the mood for some entertainment, check out what’s on at the Théâtre du Nord or the Lille Opera. It’s a lovely way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Don’t forget to try some local beers and the famous Lille “gaufres” (waffles) during your stay!
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fabulous time in Lille, Marjorie! Enjoy every moment! 🌟